Please don't kill this sweet dog!

Norman is a Bull Mastiff that is facing execution. Norman got out of his owner’s fence, which was an accident. He went exploring when he came upon Shelby, a much smaller dog. Norman wanted to play! Norman, who weighs 150 pounds, didn’t realize how much bigger he was than the other dog. He also didn’t realize how old his would-be playmate was. Norman either scared the other dog, Shelby, or picked her up. His innocent playfulness tragically cost Shelby her life. As fellow dog owners and lovers, we can all understand that losing a fur baby is a tragic ordeal. I know my heart goes out to Shelby’s people and we want to express absolute condolences to her people.

However, the city of Benton, Arkansas is considering euthanizing poor Norman! Killing Norman will not bring back Shelby- it will just add to the awful outcome of this story. It is not justice to kill Norman for his playfulness. It was an accident! Norman has no history of violence or aggressive tendencies. Norman has been around children and other dogs his whole life and has never been violent and/or aggressive. The truth is, he is a big dog and sometimes, big dogs look mean and vicious. That doesn’t mean he is!

Norman is currently being held at Benton Animal Control. He has been held for the mandatory ten day quarantine period and he should now be home with his family! Norman will have some new restrictions placed on him, but that’s ok! Even if it is deemed he should be re-homed (to new owners) or moved outside of city limits, that is much better than killing the poor puppy. Give him a second chance before killing him!

Norman’s case goes to court Thursday, February 7, 2013 at 8:30 a.m. Please sign this petition in support of Norman and his rights. We hope and pray for a fair resolution. We also pray for Shelby- it is a tragic loss but there is no need to double the pain!